Zensurance is the best starting point for residential roofers who need coverage fast. Their roofing-specific policies are built around the actual risks: water ingress liability, completed operations, and tools. Note that roofing is a higher-risk trade — premiums reflect that compared to plumbers or painters. The biggest gap for roofing crews is Workers' Compensation; WCB registration is mandatory if you have employees and must be arranged separately. Zensurance doesn't cover this.
Next Insurance is the strongest option on this list if you have roofing employees. Fall-from-height injuries are the top risk for roofing crews, and Workers' Compensation is mandatory in every province once you employ anyone. Next Insurance's WC offering is the best we reviewed. US-based but fully licensed in Canada. Worth the extra cost if you're running a crew rather than working solo.
Intact is the right call for established roofing companies doing commercial or institutional work. Their higher CGL limits (up to $5M) and ability to arrange surety bonds through their broker network makes them viable for large contracts that smaller insurers won't touch. Roofing is a high-risk trade and Intact's underwriting is more thorough — which also means slower. Not the right fit for solo operators or new businesses.
BrokerLink is worth calling if you've been declined by direct insurers — roofing's high-risk profile means some carriers won't quote without a broker relationship. They can access specialty markets for steep-slope, metal, or flat-roof commercial contractors. Ranked fourth because the process takes longer. If you've never had a claim and do standard residential roofing, Zensurance will be faster.
What insurance do roofers actually need?
Commercial General Liability (CGL) — with height coverage
Roofing carries some of the highest liability risk of any trade. A falling tool, a damaged skylight, a client's property flooded by an improperly sealed membrane — CGL covers third-party injury and property damage. Most roofing contracts require $2M minimum, and some commercial jobs require $5M. Make sure your policy explicitly covers work at height.
Tools & Equipment
Nail guns, compressors, safety harnesses, heat welding equipment — roofing gear is expensive and lives on job sites where theft and weather damage are constant risks. Tools & equipment coverage replaces what's stolen or damaged. It's especially important for solo roofers who can't afford to be off the roof while waiting on replacements.
Commercial Auto
Your personal auto policy excludes work-related claims. If you're hauling shingles, ladders, or equipment — or if your truck is how a client identifies you as a business — you need commercial auto. This is a standard requirement on most roofing contracts.
Workers' Compensation
Roofing has the highest rate of serious injury in the trades. If you have employees or subcontractors on the roof, workers' compensation isn't optional — it's legally required in most provinces. Even as a solo operator, some GCs and property owners require proof of WCB coverage before they'll let you on a project.
Frequently asked questions
How much does roofer insurance cost in Canada?
Roofing insurance is among the most expensive in the trades due to the height risk. Solo roofers typically pay $72–$150/month for basic CGL. Full coverage including tools, commercial auto, and workers' comp can run $200–$400/month depending on province and crew size.
Why is roofing insurance more expensive than other trades?
Insurers price risk based on injury and claim frequency. Roofing has a higher rate of serious falls and property damage claims than most trades, which pushes premiums up. Working at height is a rated risk — the higher and steeper the work, the higher the premium.
Can I get roofer insurance online in Canada?
Yes. Zensurance lets you quote and bind online in under 10 minutes, with coverage starting the same day. It's the fastest option for solo roofers and small crews outside Quebec.
Does this page cover Quebec roofers?
The providers listed serve most of Canada, but Zensurance's online quote-and-bind is not available in Quebec. Quebec roofers should contact a local broker like BrokerLink or Intact directly.
Do I need insurance to work as a subcontractor roofer in Canada?
Yes — almost every GC requires proof of $2M CGL before a subcontractor steps on site. Many also require workers' comp coverage and a certificate of insurance naming them as additional insured. Get your paperwork sorted before you quote the job.